Thomas John Hatala

Thomas John Hatala of Houston, TX passed away peacefully Sunday March 9, 2014 at the age of 63. Originally from Garnerville, New York Tom married his high school sweetheart in July of 1976 and moved to Texas after earning his undergraduate degree from Mankato State College and a Master’s in Education from SUNY at Cortland. Upon arrival in Texas, Tom started with the Houston Independent School District where he was a Physical Education teacher for 38 years up until the time of his death. A hard worker, Tom drove trucks during the summer and worked weekends at area golf courses including River Oaks, Houston Country Club and Lochinvar.

Tom is survived by his wife of almost 38 years, Mary; his son David Hatala of Tomball, TX; daughter Kaelen and son-in-law Lane Enderby of Houston, TX; sister Susan Ferretti and husband Pat of Richmond, Virginia; sister Charlotte Hatala of Palm Coast, FL as well as sisters and brothers in laws Ann & Nolen Thorn of Tomball, TX; Stephen and Sandi Bodnar of Newtown, CT; Lidwin & Jim Goodwine of Salisbury Mills, NY and George & Amy Bodnar of Washingtonville, NY. Tom was a proud grandparent of Liam Enderby and loved by many nieces and nephews.

Tom was an enthusiastic golfer and a member at the former Inwood Forest Golf & Country Club who enjoyed spending as much time as possible outdoors “putterin’ around” and finding sunny spots for cat naps. Tom was a great family man who was known by many to always lend a helping hand. He was a kind hearted and generous “Coach” to all. Even in death, Tom’s gift of bone and tissue will benefit over 50 people.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Shriner’s Children’s Hospital or the Wounded Warrior Project.